Karalyn Violeta, LCSW

Williamsburg

“[T]he act of revealing oneself fully to another and still being accepted may be the major vehicle of therapeutic help.” —Irvin D. Yalom

Specialties

Children and Adolescents

Immigration

Self-Esteem

Trauma

Anxiety

Depression

Relationships

Sex and Sexuality

I believe that therapy is for everyone, and that it should be a source of support, empowerment, and affirmation. I welcome each client into treatment with a warm and non-judgmental approach, and work with them to uncover their goals, strengths, and "stuck points." I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, personality disorders, ADD/ADHD in both adults and children, and providing LGBTQ-affirming and trauma-informed therapy. Other specialty areas include working with artists (many of my clients are self-employed and work in creative fields such as the visual or performing arts) and working with people living with chronic pain and chronic health conditions.

LGBTQ-Affirming and Trauma-Informed Psychotherapy

I have over 6 years of specialized training and expertise in working with transgender, gender-diverse, queer, lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth and adults. I have completed two years of post-masters training and 300+ hours of supervision in psychodynamic psychotherapy, specifically working with LGBTQ clients. I am a member of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) and serve on the Executive Committee at ICP's Psychotherapy Center for Gender & Sexuality. In individual psychotherapy I work with LGBTQ/GNC people and members of poly and kink communities. I also specialize in working with LGBTQ people who have histories of trauma in their families of origin.

How I Help

My approach is holistic and humanistic, and I relate to clients as unique individuals with their own experiences, desires, and history. My style is relational and grounded in attachment and object-relational theories. I endeavor to seamlessly blend various therapeutic modalities to customize a treatment approach that works for each client.

My training is in both psychodynamic psychotherapy and evidence-based methods such as cognitive behavioral, cognitive processing and mindfulness-based therapies. Within my work with children, I also incorporate cognitive behavioral and dynamic play-oriented approaches to address difficulties with mood, behavior, and motivation. I support my clients in developing strategies to relieve anxiety and distress, discover more effective coping skills, and empower them to work towards greater satisfaction in their life and relationships.